Hard Work Pays Off

“We belong in a world that must be strong. That’s what dreams are made of.”

Previously on “Joe’s Weekly Post:” I joined the show choir parents to present a version for the students to watch. My Imposter and Perfectionist showed up, which felt like frustration.

I grew a flower pot. On my head.

I was frustrated and not happy after the first rehearsal. I may have even said to myself “I’ll do this year because I said I would. We’ll have to see about the future.” I may have said that.

Before the second rehearsal, I recognized what was happening. I also thought I couldn’t be the only one feeling this way. I mean, it’s a room full of parents, most with jobs or careers. I don’t think there were any professional show choir singers in the crowd. (Although, from my perspective, many seemed more skilled than I was!)

I parked my car, took a big breath, and talked back to my Perfectionist and Imposter. “Okay, thanks for showing up. I hear you. You want me to do a good job. We’re just going to have fun and make sure others around me are having fun and feeling comfortable.”

It was a perfect example of the Improv Moment. When I take time to say “Yes” to the situation and build on it. In that moment, I have the choice on how I’m going to respond. In this case, I made the choice to have fun, to set aside my fears, and dive in.

I did just that. As I became more comfortable with the “dancing,” I noticed some colleagues in the rows behind following me! As if I knew what I was doing! During a short break, I turned back to them and said, “Don’t follow me, we’ll all be lost!”

The night of our big show came, and I was feeling more comfortable. Just making the choice to go “all in” and have fun made all the difference. I felt I was now a leader for those around that may have felt they were stepping out of their comfort zone. The seven-minute revue featured show tunes, modern songs, solos and duets, and even a live band! The students loved it.

For a moment, over 30 parents made a strong choice to step outside our comfort zone. For one shining moment, we made our dreams fly. In doing so, we spread love and joy for those that bring us love and joy.